A mother was preparing a birthday dinner for her college son who ...

[drink]

A mother was preparing a birthday dinner for her college son who was to return home for the celebration.
 
  On the way home he was killed in an automobile crash. Family and friends rushed to the home to offer support to the mother. Which of these persons, through an intended act of kindness, may contribute to prolonging the mother's grief?
  1. The physician who prescribed antianxiety agents to dull the pain
  2. The nurse who offered to spend the night at her home
  3. The next-door teenager who provided care for the son's two puppies
  4. The accountant who assisted with financial affairs

Question 2

A hospitalized client died moments earlier. The client's wife stares blankly at the nurse and states, It can't be. The nurse assesses this as indicating:
 
  1. Despair and protest
  2. Disorganization and confusion
  3. Anger and hostility
  4. Shock and disbelief

[joneynes]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: 1
Frequent use of anxiolytic medications can mask grief, so option 1 is correct. The other options are usual offers of assistance.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: 4
Shock and disbelief (option 4) are often the first responses to a death, followed by protest and despair (option 1). The client's wife's statement does not indicate confusion (option 2) or anger (option 3).